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The phone is a remarkably complex, simple device,
and very rarely ever needs repairs, once you fix them. Dan/Panther

I'm a believer that you should not buy badly damaged signs unless they are extremely rare, and even then, at greatly reduced price. I think we sign collectors, like other collectors, don't want to have to much investedin an item that we would have trouble getting at least a good share of our money back if we wanted to sell. Also, I like to display my signs in my house and I am not happy putting a sign on the wall that detracts from the nicer examples.

Of course this is only my personal opinion and realize, and respect any opposing viewpoints.

I would disagree that condition is everything. I have seen some crappy signs fetch pretty good money. I have been looking for one of these for a while and I've seen versions of this sign with similar amounts of damage, although not the bent flange, sell for close to $400.

I have to agree with Ell and Chuck on this. I found in 35 years in collecting my biggest regrets were buying something that did not display well. My eyes kept going to it and it became a focal point until it was gone. Just my humble opinion. Even if it is rare, if it doesn't display like new, I will pass on it....Doug

I have to agree with Ell and Chuck on this. I found in 35 years in collecting my biggest regrets were buying something that did not display well. My eyes kept going to it and it became a focal point until it was gone. Just my humble opinion. Even if it is rare, if it doesn't display like new, I will pass on it....Doug

I agree. A rusty nasty sign, no matter how rare, distracts from a sign display.

I don't think this one is too bad. I don't mind a little rust depending on how it effects the overall design. A little rust on the edge is fine, while a few bullet holes dead center mean that the sign goes on the "wall of shame". I will buy crappy signs if they are very rare or unique & the price is right. A few are even too crappy for the wall of shame. I'll hand onto them until I get a better version.

For example, I purchased the finest example of a NET&T lollipop known to exist for $20: